Many people are concerned that their computer is being monitored. Whether they are at work or at home, these are valid concerns. Those who monitor computers are typically employers, curious friends, spouses, lovers or those seeking to steal your identity. Knowing how to tell if someone is monitoring your computer will help you keep your personal information safe.

Windows XP SP2 and Vista

Windows XP SP 2 and Vista do not allow two people to be logged on the same session in Windows. This means that if someone was using Windows to monitor you, your screen would be locked and you would not be able to do anything on your computer. You would also know exactly who was logged into your system. Third-party software is the only way for someone to log on to your system with you concurrently; figuring out if a third-party software is in use is fairly simple. Go to your "Start" menu, and look through your programs. If you see a program with the letters "VNC" after it, you will know that Virtual Network Computing software is present on your machine. This means someone could monitor your computer, but it doesn't mean anyone is monitoring it at that specific time. Some people are wise to this and will install software that will not show up on your "Start" menu. Go to your "Settings" and select "Firewall" and see if there are any programs listed that end with "VNC." If there are, uncheck the box next to them. Your firewall won't let the program run.

Email and Internet Use

Many people worry that their email and Internet use are being monitored. If you are at work, chances are both are being monitored, and there's little you can do about it. You may be able to bypass the system security, but that could get you fired. The best way to alleviate the stress of worrying about whether your employer is looking at your Internet use or emails is to only use your company computer for company purposes. To see if your email is monitored, go to "Tools-Internet Options-LAN Settings." If your computer is set up to go through a proxy server, most likely your web use and email are being monitored.

Wireless Networks

Wireless networks are convenient but are also susceptible to misuse. Mischievous hackers can monitor your wireless networks to gain access to your personal information--or just get Internet service for free. Scan your firewall logs for suspicious use. If nothing is present, check your DHCP logs for IP addresses outside your range. Keep in mind that a savvy hacker will be able to fly under the radar in your firewall and DHCP logs. Check who is on your network by running the command "netstat -an." Run "ipconfig" to gain access to your personal IP address, then research and see if there's anyone on your network outside your range. If so, someone could be monitoring your wireless use from a remote area.

Source:

On-line-tech-tips.com

watchingthenet.com